First look at the NYT iPad app; free app only offers limited access, will paid version be next or subscription?

With app developments occurring at quick pace, please expect less new posts, and more updated posts. Thanks.

The New York Times iPad app has made its first appearance is the iTunes store, and while it is impossible to review before Saturday, it does give a glimpse of the Times strategy.The app is called “NYT Editor’s Choice” and is designed specifically for the iPad.

“Enjoy the award-winning journalism of The New York Times with the unique functionality and navigation of the iPad. The Editors’ Choice application offers a limited selection of news, opinion and features that are automatically updated to your device.”

The app claims to offer readers “unique display of media content”, as well as offline reading. Readers can share content through e-mail, though no social networking sharing seems to be included.

← NYT Editor’s Choice iPad app.The app is free, but with content limited. I would assume that the Times would opt for a subscription option to access full content, but we’ll have to wait and see. A more complete review of the app will follow the Saturday release.

Other news apps that have appeared:

• The WSJ’s app has just appeared and is free, as expected. But word is that accessing content will require a subscription.

• USA Today, another free app that appears to give full access.

• NPR’s much anticipated app, a hit on the iPhone. In addition to viewing and listening to the news, the app gives iPad owners access to public radio stations and on-demand programing. A must. (Can you tell I’m thrilled this will be available on launch day?)

• Both AP and Reuters will free apps.

• There are also several RSS readers that are paid apps, ranging from $2.99 to $9.99.

• As of yet, no Instapaper. (Update: Arment’s Instapaper Pro, at $4.99, has been approved and is now in the store. Here are two screenshots. Congratulations Arment.)